I was there a couple of months back, in fact, I pretty much did the exact same loop as you.

There's a video floating around reddit of that Turkish Ice cream vendor, who toys around with his customers. If you haven't seen it yet, II spent some time tracking him down. I think I might have a geotagged image of him somewhere on my computer so I can hook you up with his general whereabouts. Basically, you just have to catch the underground tram up to Istiklal Cadessi, pass the Swedish (I think?) embassy about 5 minutes away and he'll be on the left side. Look for the "Dondurma Otantik" sign.

Ephesus was a bit of a letdown because of the crowds (it's still pretty cool though). Try to leave as early as possible to miss out on the hoardes of tourists. The highlight of that area for me was the citadel in Selcuk (about 5 minutes away), which is actually closed to the public -a wall collapsed and they haven't gotten round to fix it up yet. Wander over to the main entrance, which is gated off. There's a little boy who plays there named Dohan - he'll give you a grand tour of the place. Just duck between the ramparts otherwise you might get in trouble. Give Dohan a couple of Lira for his time.

Cappadocia was awesome, except I ended up in organized tours (the person I traveled with wanted to go on them). If you're staying in Goreme, there are motorbike rental shops just by the Otogar, which I'd imagine is a much better way to explore the region. I stayed in the Star Cave Hotel and I'd highly recommend them. The staff is friendly and the breakfast was the best I had in Turkey.

Hope that helps! I've traveled South America, Europe, SE Asia and parts of the middle east - Turkey is by far one of the easiest countries I've traveled. The people are super friendly (especially if you're asian. They love us for some reason), food is good and the transportation is easy.

I can't comment on the weather or Ramadan but I'm sure you'll have a great time regardless.

Thank you!!! I have seen that ice cream vendor and just assumed it was too random to be able to track him down. I will make it a goal to find this guy. I'll upvote everything you've ever written when I come back if I find him...

This part of turkey is great. If you want something a little less crowded than Ephesus try Pamukkale and aphrodisias - The stadium is something else. When in Cappadocia go to Goreme and be sure not to miss the underground cities. bring a flashlight, you can explore some of the off limits areas by moving grates or places where they have just turned off the lights.

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